The no-makeup look is a favorite among celebrities who embrace a fresh, natural glow. Think of Gwyneth Paltrow at a Goop Q&A with an effortless office-ready radiance, or Pamela Anderson confidently going bare-faced at recent events. The best tinted sunscreens enhance this easygoing vibe—packed with antioxidants, shielding skin from the sun, and offering just a touch of coverage.
As Northern California esthetician Amy Wall explains, “Tinted sunscreens won’t give you full glam, but they’ll deliver a healthy, even look with sun protection—perfect for today’s minimalist beauty trend.” It’s no surprise the tinted SPF category is booming (without the burn!).
Recently, brands have stepped up their game: La Roche-Posay expanded its shade range, Beauty of Joseon introduced an ultra-light SPF in 12 adaptable shades, and Supergoop! proved SPF 50 can feel weightless with its Protec(tint) launch. RMS Beauty also joined the fray with 13 radiant, niacinamide-infused shades. According to Wall, today’s tinted sunscreens are “inclusive, breathable, and versatile,” often packed with skincare perks like hyaluronic acid for hydration and licorice root for brightening.
### Vogue’s Top Tinted Sunscreens
– Best Dewy Finish: Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint ($48)
– Best Matte Finish: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Tinted Sunscreen ($40)
– Best for Sensitive Skin: Tower 28 SunnyDays SPF 30 ($32)
– Best for Mature Skin: Dr. Few Tinted Mineral Sunscreen ($85)
With endless options (including cult classics that never fade), we’ve narrowed down the best dermatologist-approved picks for 2025.
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### Supergoop! Protect(tint) Daily SPF Tint
Price: $44 (Nordstrom, Supergoop!)
Why We Love It: Among Vogue’s top-tier picks, Supergoop!’s SPF 50 stood out upon its 2024 debut. As senior beauty writer Kiana Murden noted, “If I were stranded with one product, this would be it—weightless yet nourishing, even at high SPF.” Dermatologists agree: “Patients love skin tints, and this one’s a winner for its broad-spectrum protection and ease of use,” says Dr. Corey L. Hartman. The formula blends chemical and mineral filters (zinc oxide, 13.58%) with hydrating hyaluronic acid and soothing ectoin.
SPF Level: 50
Texture: Lightweight, cushiony
Type: Chemical + mineral
Best For: Natural, buildable coverage; all skin types
Sweat/Water-Resistant? No
Pros:
✔ Skincare-grade ingredients
✔ Lightweight feel
Cons:
✖ Not ideal for medium-full coverage
✖ Not waterproofIlia Super Serum Skin Tint
Price: $48
Brand: ILIA
Why We Love It: Ilia’s skin tint has a devoted following for good reason. This lightweight, sheer-coverage tinted sunscreen is a favorite on TikTok and has even won over esthetician Britta Plug, cofounder of Wilding. “This product promises to do it all, and it delivered—even during a beach day in Maui (with reapplication, of course). I was impressed,” she says. With 30 shades available, it caters to a wide range of skin tones. The SPF 40 formula is fragrance-free, silicone-free, and gluten-free, plus it’s non-comedogenic and packed with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide. “It’s more of a serum with SPF benefits—radiant and rich, perfect for skin that loves moisture,” says Wall. “It looks stunning on dry or mature skin, though it might feel too dewy for those who prefer a matte finish. Think glow, not full coverage.”
SPF Level: SPF 40
Texture: Serum
Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (12% zinc oxide)
Shades: 30
Best for: Dry, sensitive, or mature skin seeking light, dewy coverage with sun protection.
Sweat-resistant: No
Water-resistant: No
Pros:
– Non-comedogenic
– Fragrance-free
– Safe for sensitive skin
Cons:
– Not sweat-proof or waterproof
– May feel too slick for oily skin
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La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Tinted Ultra Light Face Sunscreen Fluid SPF 50
Price: $40
Brand: La Roche-Posay
Why We Love It: La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios sunscreens are a staple, whether you’re shopping in a French pharmacy or your local drugstore. The tinted version has long been a Vogue favorite, and the recent expansion to four shades (originally just one) made it even better. The lightweight formula absorbs quickly, leaving a natural matte finish while protecting and hydrating skin with antioxidants, mineral sunscreen filters, vitamin E, and thermal spring water. “I’ve always loved La Roche-Posay sunscreens, and this one is no exception,” says Dr. Hartman. “Finding a mineral sunscreen without a white cast is tough, especially for darker skin tones—this one works beautifully for everyone.”
SPF Level: SPF 50
Texture: Lightweight lotion
Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (11% titanium dioxide)
Shades: 4
Best for: Sensitive skin looking for sun protection with a matte finish.
Sweat-resistant: Yes (up to 40 minutes)
Water-resistant: Yes (up to 40 minutes)
Pros:
– Fragrance-free
– Oxybenzone-free
Cons:
– The lightest shade may pull slightly orange on very fair skin.
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Saie Slip Tint SPF 35
Price: $36
Brand: Saie
Why We Love It: “Slip Tint is fun, effortless, and doubles as makeup with SPF—but don’t underestimate its 15% zinc oxide protection,” says Wall. “It’s a great transition product for those moving from tinted moisturizers.” Plug praises its easy blendability and everyday wearability, calling it a “crowdpleaser” for its light coverage and radiant finish. Available in 14 shades (from Very Fair to Richly Deep), it’s inclusive and practical. “I appreciate the shade range, making it accessible for more people to wear daily,” says Dr. Hartman. He also approves of the formula, calling it effective and skin-friendly.
SPF Level: SPF 35
Texture: Dewy serum
Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (15% zinc oxide)
Shades: 14
Best for: Those seeking light, glowy coverage with sun protection.
Sweat-resistant: No
Water-resistant: No
Pros:
– Easy to blend
– Buildable coverage
– Suitable for daily wear
Cons:
– Not sweat- or water-resistant
– May require setting powder for oily skin typesHere’s the rewritten text in clear and natural English:
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Product 1:
This sunscreen contains hyaluronic acid to hydrate the skin and licorice root extract to even out skin tone and brighten the complexion. Dr. Sandy Skotnicki, a dermatologist and allergy expert based in Toronto, also highlights its sustainability features: “It uses reef-safe non-nano zinc oxide, has sustainable packaging, and is climate-neutral certified.” The formula is free of fragrance and essential oils and includes iron oxide, which helps protect against hyperpigmentation by filtering high-energy visible light.
SPF Level: SPF 35
Texture: Creamy, dewy lotion
Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (15% zinc oxide)
Shades: 14
Best for: Dry or dull skin needing sun protection with sheer coverage and a dewy finish.
Sweat-resistant: No
Water-resistant: No
Love It | Leave It
Hydrating | Sheer coverage may be too light for some
Evens skin tone |
Boosts luminosity |
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Product 2: Dr. Few Tinted Mineral Sunscreen
Price: $85
Why We Love It: Developed by Dr. Julius Few, Gwyneth Paltrow’s go-to skincare expert, this sunscreen nourishes the skin while providing high-level protection. Dr. Kristina Collins, a board-certified dermatologist, explains: “With SPF 50 and a blend of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, it offers strong UV defense and a smooth, semi-matte finish. It also contains antioxidants like vitamins C and E, making it great for mature skin or sun-related aging concerns.”
The tint, developed by an oculoplastic surgeon, comes in one universal shade that preps skin for makeup, leaving it smooth and radiant. Dr. Hartman notes: “It’s marketed as a makeup primer, which is smart—many people use primers, and having one with SPF is a bonus.” However, blending may take some effort—Wall advises using a sponge or brush for best results.
SPF Level: SPF 30
Texture: Creamy lotion
Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (25% nano-zinc oxide)
Shades: 1
Best for: Those wanting a makeup primer with sun protection or targeting fine lines and wrinkles.
Sweat-resistant: No
Water-resistant: No
Love It | Leave It
Doctor-developed | Expensive
Anti-aging | Only one shade
Wears well under makeup |
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Product 3: Tower 28 Sunny Days Tinted SPF 30
Price: $32
Why We Love It: Designed for sensitive and acne-prone skin, this non-comedogenic sunscreen combines mineral SPF 30 with a breathable tint. Dr. Collins says: “It’s fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and approved by the National Eczema Association—great for redness-prone or reactive skin.” Enriched with aloe vera, prickly pear, and white sage extracts, it’s ideal for sensitive skin needing lightweight coverage. Available in 17 shades, each named after an LA landmark, it provides buildable, natural-looking coverage. Wall adds: “I love that Tower 28 focused on barrier support.”
SPF Level: SPF 30
Texture: Ultra-lightweight, dewy lotion
Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (non-nano zinc oxide)
Shades: 17
Best for: Sensitive or problem-prone skin wanting medium coverage with sun protection.
Sweat-resistant: No
Water-resistant: No
Love It | Leave It
Reef-safe | Not sweat- or water-resistant
Great for sensitive skin |
17 shade options |
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Product 4: Beauty of Joseon Daily Tinted Fluid Sunscreen SPF 40
Price: $20
Why We Love It: A popular K-beauty pick, this lightweight fluid sunscreen provides SPF 40 with a subtle tint to even skin tone.
(Note: The original text was cut off, so the rewrite ends here.)
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Let me know if you’d like any refinements!With ingredients like rice extract and niacinamide, this sunscreen provides both UV protection and brightening effects, making it ideal for dull or uneven skin tones. Dr. Hartman’s clients are already raving about it. “My patients keep telling me how much they love this sunscreen,” he says. “They say it glides on smoothly, hydrates without feeling heavy, and feels more like a moisturizer than traditional sunscreen.”
The SPF 40 fluid formula contains olive lipids to strengthen the skin barrier and artemisia capillaris extract to soothe irritation. Available in 12 shades, this Korean sunscreen also includes mineral pigments for light coverage that gives skin a soft, blurred finish. For a flawless, airbrushed look, the brand suggests blending it with a brush or sponge.
SPF Level: SPF 40
Texture: Lightweight fluid
Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (zinc oxide)
Shades: 12
Best for: Dull or uneven skin needing light coverage and sun protection
Sweat-resistant: No
Water-resistant: No
Love It
✔ Balances oily skin
✔ Lightweight
✔ Hydrating
✔ Gentle on sensitive eyes
Leave It
✖ Coverage may be too light for some
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### RMS Beauty SunCoverup Super Tint SPF 50 Broad Spectrum Sunscreen
Price: $49 (Available at Bluemercury, Nordstrom, Amazon)
Why We Love It: Created by makeup artist Rose-Marie Swift, this sunscreen evens skin tone while adding radiance. Packed with nourishing ingredients like vegetable squalane for hydration, bisabolol for soothing, and adaptogenic herbs to soften skin, it also features GlowPlex—a proprietary blend of niacinamide, quinoa-seed, and pea extracts to brighten and firm. Dr. Hartman notes its silicone-free formula contains zinc oxide for UV and blue light protection.
“This is a hybrid between a glow serum and sunscreen,” says Wall. “It’s not for everyone, but if your skin looks tired or dull, it gives a luminous, cosmetic-level sheen—sun care, skincare, and radiance in one.”
SPF Level: SPF 50
Texture: Fluid cream
Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (non-nano zinc oxide)
Shades: 13
Best for: Dull, dry, or aging skin seeking sun protection with a luminous finish
Sweat-resistant: No
water-resistant: No
Love It
✔ Dermatologist-tested
✔ Hypoallergenic
Leave It
✖ Dewy finish may be too shiny for some
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### EltaMD UV Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 46 Tinted Face Sunscreen
Price: $46 (Available at Amazon)
Why We Love It: A favorite among dermatologists, celebrities, and beauty editors, this tinted sunscreen suits all skin types—especially acne- or rosacea-prone skin. Dr. Ruth McTighe, a board-certified dermatologist, says, “It’s non-comedogenic and helps reduce redness and inflammation.”
Formulated with niacinamide to even skin tone and minimize blemishes, it offers SPF 46 protection via zinc oxide and octinoxate. The oil-free formula comes in two tinted shades and works well under makeup or alone. Pro tip: Like Leighton Meester, mix the tinted and untinted versions for subtle coverage.
SPF Level: SPF 46
Texture: Lightweight, silky lotion
Chemical or Mineral: Mineral (octinoxate 7.5%, zinc oxide 9%)
Shades: 2
Best for: Acne-prone skin
Sweat-resistant: No
Water-resistant: No
Love It
✔ Fragrance-free
✔ Paraben-free
✔ Non-comedogenic
Leave It
✖ Only two shades
✖ Not sweat- or water-resistant
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### What Is a Tinted Sunscreen?
“A tinted sunscreen is primarily an SPF with added pigment for light-to-medium makeup coverage,” explains esthetician Britta Plug, cofounder of Wildling. “This can be especially helpful…”Here’s the rewritten text in clear and natural English:
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Mineral-based sunblocks that leave a white cast. The pigments help blend the physical sunblock with your skin tone.
She explains that the difference between a tinted sunscreen and a tinted moisturizer with SPF is mostly about wording—it’s more of a spectrum than strict categories. In her view, it comes down to the product’s main purpose: “Is it mainly meant to hydrate and moisturize while offering SPF as a bonus? Or is it primarily an SPF with some hydrating ingredients to give a dewy finish or counteract the dryness that mineral sunscreens can cause?”
Is tinted sunscreen as effective as clear or untinted sunscreen?
According to Dr. Mona Foad, a board-certified dermatologist in Cincinnati, “Tinted sunscreens can be just as effective—if not more so—than clear or untinted sunscreens.” She notes that both types can provide broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays if they contain the right ingredients. “The level of UVA protection depends on active ingredients like zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, or avobenzone—not the tint,” she says. “Plus, tinted sunscreens often offer better defense against visible light, including blue light, thanks to iron oxides and pigments. Visible light can worsen hyperpigmentation, especially in people with darker skin.”
Tinted sunscreens also have cosmetic benefits, evening out skin tone and covering imperfections. “This dual function can be convenient and may encourage more regular use,” Foad points out. “The tint also makes it easier to see where you’ve applied the sunscreen, helping ensure even coverage and avoiding missed spots.”
What to look for in a tinted sunscreen
“When choosing a tinted sunscreen, consider several factors to make sure it meets your needs and provides good protection,” Foad says. Here’s what to keep in mind:
SPF Level: “Pick a sunscreen with at least SPF 30, which blocks about 97% of UVB rays,” Foad advises. (SPF 15 blocks around 93%.) “Make sure it’s broad-spectrum to protect against both UVA and UVB rays—this helps prevent skin aging and lowers the risk of skin cancer.”
Skin Type: Your skin type should guide your choice. “For oily skin, go for non-comedogenic, oil-free, or matte-finish formulas that won’t clog pores,” Foad says. For dry skin, she recommends hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides. Sensitive skin? Opt for mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. “For acne-prone skin, choose non-comedogenic, oil-free formulas with anti-inflammatory ingredients like niacinamide.”
Shade Range: “Finding a shade that matches your skin tone is key for a natural look,” Foad says. “Some brands offer a wide range, which is especially helpful for people with darker skin.” To test the match, “apply a small amount to your jawline or neck—it should blend smoothly without streaking.”
Foad adds that other factors include the finish (matte, dewy, or natural) and whether the sunscreen contains anti-aging or soothing ingredients.
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Let me know if you’d like any further refinements!Tinted sunscreens offer benefits like antioxidants (such as vitamin C and vitamin E) for extra protection against environmental damage, and some are water-resistant—great for pool or beach days.
What are the downsides of tinted sunscreen?
While tinted sunscreens have advantages, there are some drawbacks to keep in mind. Dr. Dendy Engelman, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, notes that some tinted sunscreens may not offer the same level of sun protection as regular ones. Many have an SPF of 20 to 30, which is the minimum recommended for daily use—though options like Supergoop! and Agency provide higher SPF levels.
Another issue is that people often apply less tinted sunscreen than needed, focusing more on appearance than full protection. To avoid this, use the recommended amount (about one ounce, or a shot glass worth) per application. For prolonged sun exposure, Dr. Engelman suggests layering tinted sunscreen with a traditional broad-spectrum SPF for better coverage. And remember—reapplying every two hours is key for lasting protection.
Meet the Experts
– Dr. Kristina Collins – Board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon in Austin.
– Dr. Corey L. Hartman – Board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, Alabama.
– Dr. Ruth McTighe – Board-certified dermatologist at Waccamaw Dermatology near Charleston, South Carolina.
– Dr. Sandy Skotnicki – Dermatologist in Toronto and co-host of the Skin To It podcast.
– Amy Wall – Esthetician based in Mendocino, California.